When you think of saving animals, whales, pandas, and other exotic species come to mind. You don’t ever really think of rescuing a guinea pig, but these little rodents are in need of love and attention as much as any other. Like cats and dogs, guinea pigs can be found in shelters all across the country. They, too, are often abandoned, after being received as Christmas gifts, birthday gifts, or won at carnivals.

Believe it or not, but guinea pigs suffer from abuse or neglect as well. Oftentimes, children who are not well versed in caring for a new pet allow them to die—unintentionally—by hunger and thirst, or do not clean out their cages and allow them to become sick. Still other pet owners commit acts of animal cruelty, killing or injuring their own guinea pigs on purpose. Many shelters do have abused or neglected guinea pigs up for adoption who would gladly be welcomed into a new loving family.

And as with any other pet adoption, taking in a guinea pig requires plenty of responsibility and commitment. Daily feeding and care are required for guinea pigs, as well as regular affection and attention. Like any other pet, they do require veterinarian care, healthful food, exercise, and an overall care regimen to maintain good health. If you are interested in getting a guinea pig, before you try going to your local pet store, why not consider adopting one from a shelter first?

Your local shelter is likely to have a guinea pig or two; if not, they can always direct you to one that does have guinea pigs. Your local veterinarian may also be able to recommend a good place that offers guinea pig adoption. There are also many shelters online that list available guinea pigs—or “pigs” or “piggies” as their aficionados often call them—for adoption. One of these is Guinea Pig Home. Many states have their own guinea pig adoption websites, such as Virginia, Texas, and California (where the motto is, “Adopt, Don’t Shop”). If you do a quick Internet search for your area you can quickly find available guinea pigs for adoption.

Have you ever rescued an abandoned or abused guinea pig? Share your stories here. And if you know of any wonderful shelters that regularly offer guinea pigs for adoption, be sure to post the link, phone number, or address to them as well.